Proofreading Perils

The ad was already on the presses when I realized it contained several copy errors:

1. "The system is panelized for rapid installation and access above-ceiling access."

2. "Using high speed, equipment, each part is made with precision..."

Can you spot the errors?

Fortunately, with the aid of the ad sales rep and the cooperation of the publisher, the correction was made before the ink was laid down.

But the near miss motivates me to share these proof reading techniques.
  • Use a professional copy editor.
  • Dial phone numbers in the proof to make sure they go where you intended.
  • Don't wait until the last minute. It is amazing how many mistakes are caught after a night's sleep.
So what are the errors in these examples?
1. The word "access" is repeated.
2. There is a carelessly placed comma after "high speed".